Realistically, it is quite unlikely that George Clooney will run as a candidate for the Democratic Party's next presidential nomination.

First of all, it is important to note that he has repeatedly stated, "I am not going into politics."

In interviews, he has said there is no second act in his political life and has repeatedly expressed a desire to live comfortably for the rest of his life. This attitude is close to what is referred to in American politics as a 'Sherman statement', meaning he would not accept a nomination even if offered, nor would he serve if elected.

Instead, a role that suits Clooney has already solidified. He is not likely to be a direct candidate but rather a kingmaker for the Democratic Party. In fact, during the election, he held a massive Hollywood fundraising event for Biden, raising tens of millions of dollars, and later publicly wrote that while he loves Biden, the party needs other candidates, putting pressure for him to step down.

Ultimately, this was seen as contributing to Biden's withdrawal from the primaries. Recently, he has made critical comments about the current leadership, positioning himself as a sort of external advisor. In other words, he is more of a 'big player' who supports or pulls back candidates rather than a player looking to elevate his own name.

Moreover, if this person suddenly says, "Then I will run myself," it would conflict with the role he has built up until now. The position of a neutral benefactor who raises money in Hollywood would collapse, and he would have to enter the political mud pit and face criticism head-on. This is contrary to the style he has lived by until now. There is also the issue of age.

Clooney was born in 1961, making him in his late 60s by the 2028 election. In a situation where American voters are feeling fatigue from the elderly candidates like Biden and Trump, it would not align with the message for the Democratic Party to bring in a newcomer politician in his late 60s while shouting for 'young and new leadership'. He has also expressed in interviews that he wants to reduce his work due to his age and enjoy the rest of his life.

Additionally, Clooney has already moved away from the position of being a 'perfect star supporter' that everyone can comfortably rally around. There have been sharp exchanges with family members regarding Biden's departure, and such debates have solidified his image more as a critic who strongly voices specific opinions rather than a symbolic figure that the entire Democratic Party can agree upon. Elevating such a person as the next banner would pose significant risks for the party.

However, it is difficult to say that the possibility is absolutely zero. If the Democratic Party were to fail significantly, and disillusionment with current politicians rises to an extreme level, creating a sudden shift in public opinion that calls for a non-political celebrity candidate, a scenario of persuading him with something like 'George, just come out this one time' could emerge.

The symbolism of a star who can combine Hollywood, elite networks, and massive fundraising power is certainly attractive. However, considering his past statements, age, lifestyle, established kingmaker role, and cynical distance from politics, the likelihood of him personally seeking such ambition is nearly zero, and the chances of the party forcibly recruiting him are also low.

If we were to quantify it, estimating the 'probability of George Clooney actually standing on the primary stage' at a personal feeling of under 5% seems reasonable. Ultimately, Clooney is more realistically a Hollywood-style kingmaker who critiques candidates, offers advice, raises funds, and occasionally delivers a punch, rather than a next candidate. And he also seems to enjoy that position quite a bit.